Determinants of Physical Activity in Older Adults: Integrating Self-Concordance into the Theory of Planned Behavior

Abstract

Based on the theory of planned behavior (TPB), augmented by the concept of self-concordance (derived from self-determination theory, SDT), we conducted a study to identify the key determinants of physical activity in older adults. We applied structural equation modeling of telephone survey data from a random sample of adults aged 65 years and older living in Germany (N = 865). Relations of attitude, subjective norms, and perceived behavioral control (PBC) with intention strength and self-concordance of intention to be physically active were tested. Habit strength was analyzed as a moderator. Data analysis showed this model to be well-suited for explaining the intention to be physically active—especially for people with a weak habit. The influence of TPB components on intention would have been underestimated if we had investigated intention strength only, without considering the self-concordance of intention. While attitude and PBC had positive relations with a strong and self-determined intention, the subjective norm showed no relation with intention strength but, rather, with non-self-determined regulation forms. We conclude that the combined model provides a better theoretical foundation from which to explain physical activity intentions than does just one of the theories.

Percepciones y experiencias de los adultos mayores con respecto a la actividad Sit-to-stand: Un estudio etnográfico de viabilidad previa

“…Se presta especial atención a las intervenciones fundadas en el principio de que ciertos predictores críticos del deterioro en la movilidad pueden modificarse (16) . En consecuencia, la actividad física surge como una posible intervención para mejorar o preservar la movilidad de los adultos mayores remodelando determinantes críticos (17)(18) .…”

Older people’s perceptions and experiences of older people with the Sit-to-stand activity: An ethnographic pre-feasibility study

“…Special attention is given to interventions founded on the principle that some critical predictors of mobility decline are modifiable 16 . Therefore, physical activity emerges as a possible intervention to improve or maintain mobility in older people by remodeling critical determinants 17 - 18 . There is evidence that mobility-challenged older people benefit from interventions targeting muscular strength, flexibility and balance 19 , such as the Sit-to-stand activity.…”

Physical activity behavior during Covid 19 pandemic among Iranian dwellers in Southern Iran based on planned behavior theory: a SEM analysis

“…Attitude is best defined as assessing a certain behavior and its perceived effects. Finally, perceived behavioral control (PBC) addresses control beliefs that include barriers and facilitators of behavior performance [12]. In conclusion, TPB demonstrates that intentions are the primary source of behavioral action, although intentions are afterwards recognized by emotional attitudes (anticipated pleasure) and instrumental attitudes (expected usefulness), subjective norm (perceived social pressure), and behavioral control.…”